File photo.
A Bristol Township man was arrested Wednesday after police said he sent sexually explicit images to who he thought was a 12-year-old girl.
George Shetzline, 54, began messaging what he believed to be a 12-year-old on a social media dating app on March 21, according to Bensalem Township police.
George Shetzline.
Credit: Bensalem Township police
Investigators said Shetzline quickly turned the conversation sexual, sent a photo of his genitals, and asked the child to perform a sex act.
Police said Shetzline continued sending numerous photos, some of which included his face, and described sexual acts he wanted to perform. He also discussed meeting the girl at Neshaminy Mall in Bensalem.
Authorities said no child was ever in danger during the investigation.
On Sept. 10, police obtained an arrest warrant charging Shetzline with attempted unlawful contact with a minor, unlawful contact with a minor, and criminal use of a communication facility.
Police said a tipster reviewing court records discovered the warrant and notified Shetzline, who was encouraged to turn himself in.
When he failed to do so, Bensalem and Bristol Township officers went to his Park Avenue residence, police said.
His girlfriend told officers he had left about an hour earlier, but police later found Shetzline hiding behind a couch inside the apartment. He was taken into custody without incident.
Authorities said hindering apprehension charges are pending against the girlfriend for allegedly concealing his whereabouts.
Shetzline was preliminarily arraigned by District Judge Charles Jonas and remanded to the Bucks County Correctional Facility on 10 percent of $750,000 bail.
Court records show Shetzline previously served prison time and probation in the early 2000s for various cases, including resisting arrest, theft, and unauthorized use of a motor vehicle.
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